Sheep worrying warning after pregnant ewe’s ear ripped off in suspected dog attack
Kintyre farmers are appealing to dog walkers to ensure their pets are kept on leads near livestock after an attack on a sheep days before lambing was due to begin.
Police are appealing for information after an incident of sheep worrying at a farm near Kilkenzie, during which the sheep had an ear ripped off.
It is believed the animal was attacked by a dog sometime between 7am and 11am on Thursday March 14.
Constable Lucas McAlister from Campbeltown Police Station said: “Thankfully, the sheep is expected to survive, despite its serious injuries.
“Enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0797 of March 14 2024.”
Police are urging dog owners to be responsible, especially when walking near livestock, and have issued the following advice: keep dogs in sight, on a lead and under control around livestock; where possible, avoid livestock; choose alternative routes rather than through fields of young calves or lambs and leave gates as they are found.
A Police Scotland spokesperson added: “It is a criminal offence to allow your dog to attack or worry livestock on agricultural land. Failure to control your dog can result in a fine of up to £40,000 or a 12-month prison sentence.”
South Kintyre councillor John Armour added his voice to the calls for dog owners to be vigilant.
“As a sheep farmer, I know how upsetting this incident must have been for the farmer,” he said, “not to mention the stress caused to the sheep in the last few days and weeks before lambing.
“It is not as if there has been no publicity over the last few years about keeping dogs on leads; just why anyone would allow their dog to run free amongst any animals beggars belief.
“The recent legislation passed in the Scottish Parliament with large fines or even prison sentences should act as a deterrent but we still have those inconsiderate owners who don’t seem to care.”
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